The Under 9's and 8's also flew into the Grand Finals and this accomplishment clearly demonstrates the many talented young players who are fully supported by highly motivated and passionate coaches.

Ealing RFC's Minis Chairman, Izabella Grzyb, commented:

"Our club is developing rapidly and we welcome any age and ability with open arms. We have recently embarked on a new venture hosting competitions with schools in the borough, which is proving to be a great success. We are very excited about our upcoming tour to Bournemouth and we are entering 9 teams in the Bournemouth festival and have 260 tourists (Minis & their families) on this year's tour. This will be a great opportunity for them to meet new people and build friendships. Our recent success at the Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup has boosted team spirit and we are very proud of having an impressive three teams in the Grand Finals".

Under 7's

Ealing Under 7's scored an impressive 17 tries to qualify for the Grand Finals. A fantastic start for a team just beginning their rugby careers! Alex Smith (head coach) described the tournament as an 'excellent experience'.

Under 8's

Fine flowing rugby, agile attacks and top notch defence took Ealing Under 8's 'A' side through to the Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup Grand Finals.Head coach Tim Vaughan-Hughes shouting encouragement from the sideline throughout and a new coach and manager has worked wonders producing a scintillating season!

Under 9's

With fast paced passes and tremendous teamwork, Ealing Under 9's won their group at the Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup Semi Finals to qualify in style for the Grand Finals of the prestigious tournament which will be held at The Twickenham Stoop Stadium, on the 26^th of March. Head Coach Kevin Purcell has introduced a different style to coaching and believes it is the way forward:

"Our coaching philosophy is to base as much of the training as possible on game based situations. This ensures the players are active and involved all the time and also helps to make the sessions competitive keeping the players interested - gone are the days of static and repetitive drills!"

The Under 7, Under 8 and Under 9 Grand Finals of the Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup will be played prior to the Harlequins V Gloucester match on the 26^th March.

To view the Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup website page Click Here